An Associated Press report of April 2, 2009 states that Superior Court Judge Peter D. Litchman has ordered the Roman Catholic Franciscans to release hundreds of private files on personnel as part of a clergy sexual abuse settlement of May 2006 in Los Angeles.
Some of the Franciscan brothers fought that their right to privacy would be violated if they were forced to release the files. Despite the fact that the judge ordered the Franciscan friars to release the information within 21 days, an appeal to the ruling is expected.
Sexual abuse by any individual is criminal and the offense is that much worse when inflicted by a supposed spiritual and religious guide and teacher. If you or a loved one has survived clergy abuse, please contact the Zalkin Law Firm for experienced legal advice and support.
